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Abstract
Challenges and experiences encountered in the scale up of antiretroviral therapy in the North Rift Region of Kenya
Cheruiyot Bii S.1
Objectives: To describe the challenges and experiences encountered in the scaleup of ART in remote parts of Northern Kenya
Methods: Programe review
Results: The North Rift Province of Kenya covers an area of about 90,000 km2 with a population of 4 million. Estimated HIV prevalence is 5% (range 3-11%). The ART program was initiated in 2004, initially under research basis only by Moi University. In 2005, treatment became available on a public health scale. In January 2005, there were only 177 patients on ARVS but by December 2006, they were 13,410 against an estimated 20,000 patients who require ARVS. Of these, 1100 (8%) were children. Major constraints to ART provision is lack of infrastructure, inadequate laboratory facilities (CD4, PCR, Viral load, Resistance testing), few health workers and low capacity of the health personnel to take care of the patients. Poverty, lack of food, late reporting for treatment and low educational level of the patients are other challenges. Provision of pediatric ART has been a major challenge due to lack of diagnostic tools, lack of pediatric ARVs and lack of skilled personnel. However, despite these challenges, the program has been a success with an estimated 65% of patients who require ARVs accessing it. Defaulter rates have been low at 5%, while death rates for adults started on ART is 6% and 8% for pediatrics.
Conclusions: The exponential increase in the number of patients on ARVS shows that the provision of ARVS in a low income country can be provided successfully on a public health scale. However, there is need for public and private sectors to come together to address the challenges facing the program. Partners can assist by training health workers, developing infrastructure, equipping health facilities and augmenting the number of health workers through recruitment on contract. Emphasis should now be placed on patient follow-up.
4th IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention
Abstract no.
CDB497
Suggested Citation
" Cheruiyot Bii S.
Challenges and experiences encountered in the scale up of antiretroviral therapy in the North Rift Region of Kenya.
:
4th IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention:
Abstract no.
CDB497"
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